Salted Honey Pie: A Golden, Sweet-Salty Southern Classic

Few desserts capture the essence of Southern baking quite like a Salted Honey Pie. Rich, golden, and perfectly balanced between sweet honey and a hint of salt, this pie is a classic Southern indulgence that has delighted generations.

With a flaky pie crust, silky honey custard, and just the right touch of sea salt, each slice delivers a warm, comforting taste that’s sweet but never cloying. Whether served for a holiday, family dinner, or special occasion, this Salted Honey Pie is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and salty perfection: Honey and salt complement each other beautifully.
• Southern classic: A beloved dessert with history and nostalgia.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples come together for an elegant result.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake in advance for stress-free entertaining.
• Customizable: Top with whipped cream, nuts, or extra honey drizzle for flair.

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup honey (preferably light or clover honey)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Place pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan.
2. Prepare honey filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, honey, and heavy cream until smooth.
3. Add eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.
4. Pour into crust: Pour mixture into prepared pie crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake the pie: Bake 35–40 minutes until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Avoid overbaking to maintain a silky texture.
6. Cool and set: Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Chill in the refrigerator for an additional hour for easier slicing.
7. Serve: Sprinkle lightly with sea salt before serving. Optional: drizzle with extra honey or top with whipped cream.

Tips for the Perfect Salted Honey Pie

• Honey selection: Use mild honey for a balanced sweetness; darker honey will add a stronger flavor.
• Avoid cracking: Bake until just set; residual heat will continue to firm the custard.
• Chill before slicing: Ensures clean slices and a smooth texture.
• Crust options: Blind-bake crust slightly for a crisp bottom or use a buttery store-bought crust.
• Serving extras: Add a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted pecans, or a drizzle of honey for elegance.

Variations

• Nutty twist: Fold toasted walnuts or pecans into the filling before baking.
• Spiced honey pie: Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for warm spice notes.
• Caramel drizzle: Add a swirl of homemade caramel over the top before serving.
• Mini pies: Make individual tartlets using a muffin tin for portion control and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm or chilled, with fresh berries or whipped cream.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or a dessert wine for special occasions.
• Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or Southern-inspired dinners.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Honey pies have a long history in Southern baking, dating back to early American homesteads where honey was a common sweetener. Adding a hint of sea salt balances the richness of the custard, elevating the flavor profile. This dessert exemplifies the classic Southern approach: simple ingredients, thoughtful technique, and maximum flavor.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Serving chilled: Allows custard to set fully for clean slices.
• Reheating: Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed in a low oven (250°F/120°C) for 5–10 minutes.

Pro Tips

• Even honey distribution: Whisk thoroughly to prevent settling during baking.
• Avoid overbaking: Custard will firm up as it cools; remove slightly jiggly.
• Presentation matters: Lightly drizzle honey and sprinkle sea salt before serving to enhance both flavor and appearance.

With this recipe, your Salted Honey Pie will bring a golden, sweet-salty Southern classic to any table, impressing guests and satisfying dessert lovers alike.

Salted Honey Pie: A Golden, Sweet-Salty Southern Classic

Classic Southern honey pie with a flaky crust, silky honey custard, and a touch of sea salt for the perfect sweet-salty balance.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pie

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust homemade or store-bought
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 eggs large
• 1/2 cup honey light or clover
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp sea salt plus extra for sprinkling

Equipment

• Pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan.
2. Whisk together melted butter, sugar, honey, and heavy cream until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.
4. Pour mixture into pie crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake 35–40 minutes until custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
7. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt before serving. Optionally drizzle extra honey or top with whipped cream.

Notes

Avoid overbaking for silky custard; store covered in fridge for up to 3 days.